Have you ever wondered why the plants in your garden are dying? You’re not alone. Many people face this issue every single year. The good news is that there are some common reasons why plants die, and once you identify the problem, you can take steps to rectify it. Here are five of the most common reasons why plants die.
Sunlight
Sunlight plays a fundamental role in your plant’s health. It helps your plant to produce food through photosynthesis and also provides warmth. Without enough sunlight, your plant will gradually start to die. However, too much sunlight can also be problematic. If you notice that your plant is not getting enough sunlight, try moving it to a sunnier location.
Little Sunlight
One of the most common reasons plants die is not getting enough sunlight. Depending on the type of plant, it may need hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. If your plant is not getting enough sunlight, it will begin to wilt and eventually die.
One way to solve this problem is by moving your plant to a sunnier location. If that’s not possible, you can try using grow lights.
Too Much Sunlight
Certain plants need partial shade to thrive. If they’re exposed to too much sunlight, they will begin to wilt and eventually die. If you think your plant is getting too much sunlight, try moving it to a shadier location. Additionally, you can install corrugated roofing sheets to cover your plants. These sheets will help to deflect some of the sunlight. This means that sunlight can still reach your plants, but not too much sunlight.
Too much water
While all plants need water to survive, too much water can be just as fatal as too little water. When a plant gets too much water, the roots start to rot, and the plant will eventually suffocate and die. Here are some things you need to know about watering your plants:
- Before watering your plant, always double-check the soil. If it’s still wet, give it some time to dry out first.
- Water early in the day, so the water has time to evaporate before nightfall.
- Avoid getting water on the leaves of your plant. Wet leaves are more susceptible to fungal diseases.
- If you think your plant is getting too much water, try to drain and reduce the amount of water you’re giving.
Insect infestation
Another common reason for plant death is insect infestation. Certain types of insects, such as aphids and scale bugs, suck the sap out of plants, which weakens them and makes them more susceptible to disease. In extreme cases, an infestation can kill a plant outright. Signs that your plant has an insect infestation include yellow leaves, wilting leaves, and black or brown spots on the leaves. Here’s how you can deal with such an infestation:
Natural Repellents
Insect repellents are a great way to keep insects away from your plants. There are several natural repellents that you can use, such as garlic, chili peppers, and neem oil.
Insecticidal Soap
If you already have an infestation, you can try using insecticidal soap. This soap will kill the insects on contact without harming your plants.
Predatory Insects
Another way to deal with an infestation is to introduce predatory insects, such as ladybugs and green lacewings. These predators will help to keep the population of harmful insects in check.
Lack of nutrients
Plants also need nutrients to survive. The three primary nutrients that plants need are nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (often referred to as “NPK”). These nutrients can come from commercial fertilizers but are expensive and dangerous. Here are some alternatives.
Compost
One of the best ways to provide nutrients for your plants is through compost. Compost is made from organic matter, such as leaves and fruit, that has been decomposed. It’s a great way to add nutrients to your soil without commercial fertilizers.
Mulch
Mulch is another great way to add nutrients to your soil. It’s made from organic materials, such as leaves and bark, that have been shredded. Mulch also helps to retain moisture in the ground and keep weeds at bay.
Disease
Like humans, plants can also succumb to the disease. Some diseases are caused by fungi or bacteria, while viruses or nematodes cause others. Common signs of a plant’s disease include discolored leaves, stunted growth, and black or brown spots on the leaves or stem. If you suspect that your plant has a disease, it’s best to consult with a professional for diagnosis and treatment options.”
While many potential reasons your plants might be dying, these five reasons are some of the most common culprits. Addressing these issues can help ensure that your plants stay healthy and live long lives.
